Student travel insurance checklist for studying in Canada

Posted on: Jul 28, 2025 | 3 mins | Written by: HDFC ERGO Team

Student travel insurance checklist for studying in Canada

Do you intend to study in Canada? Then, one of the first items on your list should be student travel insurance. Although Canada has a great healthcare system, international students are not always covered. If you don't have the proper international travel insurance, even a basic medical appointment can cost you a significant amount of money. It's frequently a requirement rather than merely a choice because many universities also make it mandatory. It's more about mental peace than anything else. You can concentrate on adjusting to your new life stress-free, knowing that you're covered against unforeseen medical emergencies, airline delays, or misplaced luggage. Having this resolved before your flight provides you with a genuine sense of financial security and confidence.

Things you should check for in your Travel insurance for studying in Canada

Purchasing student travel insurance is one of the most crucial things you will do before leaving for Canada, even if it might not feel as exciting as making your travel arrangements or packing your luggage. You can avoid a lot of unforeseen problems, both financially and medically, by taking this one step. Don't merely pick the most publicised or least expensive plan when making your selection. Examine the policy's real coverage in detail. Let's go over the things you need to watch out for.

1. Health insurance that is in line with Canadian prices

Although Canadian healthcare is excellent, it is not free unless you are a citizen or permanent resident. Even a simple doctor's appointment might cost thousands of rupees if you don't have the proper insurance. Verify that medical treatment for illness, injuries, and hospital stays is covered by your international travel insurance. Imagine being hospitalised for a few days in Toronto due to a severe case of the flu. Your medical care, hospital stay, and prescription medications should all be covered by a decent insurance plan. For overseas students, it is common to look for a sum insured of a minimum USD 50,000 to USD 100,000.

2. Loss of a laptop, passport, or luggage

Along with pricey devices like your laptop, phone, and camera, you're hauling vital documents. Losing them is expensive in addition to causing worry. Make sure that theft or loss of these things is covered by your student travel insurance. A good plan should cover the price of a replacement passport and make up for any lost belongings if your passport or luggage is stolen during a weekend getaway to Montreal. However, some plans limit the amount you can claim for gadgets, so always check the sub-limit.

3. Repatriation and emergency medical evacuation

We frequently ignore this aspect of the coverage. However, this perk becomes crucial in the rare instances where you might need to be transferred to a different facility or perhaps sent back to India for treatment. Suppose that while on a winter vacation in Quebec, you have a skiing accident and the nearby hospital is underequipped. The expense of an emergency evacuation to the closest appropriate hospital, or even back home if necessary, should be covered by your policy. Although nobody wants to think about it, repatriation of remains should be covered by insurance just in case.

4. Protection of sponsors

This is a perk worth including if your parents or sponsors are paying for your education. The policy will assist in paying for the remaining portion of your tuition if something were to happen to your sponsor. Your insurance may pay for the remaining tuition in the terrible event of a sponsor's untimely death, saving you from having to drop out of school in the middle of your studies.

5. Protection against tuition and study interruptions

A significant one that many students overlook is this one. Having this advantage can be quite helpful if you or a family member has a medical emergency that forces you to stop your course. Imagine missing a whole semester because you have to spend a lot of time at home after a close relative dies unexpectedly. Certain plans will pay for the non-refundable tuition and even the expense of continuing your education at a later time.

6. Dental care for emergencies or accidents

In Canada, dental treatment is notoriously costly. Unintentional dental care is frequently covered, but regular examinations are not. Your insurance should cover emergency dental care if you chip your tooth in a football game due to a fall. Don't expect a complimentary whitening session, either, as regular cleaning and cosmetic procedures won't be covered.

7. Coverage of maternity and mental health

Being a student overseas can be very demanding. Certain insurance companies provide coverage for maternity-related expenses as well as outpatient mental health care. These are frequently included on more expensive plans or are optional. This additional layer of coverage can assist with the costs of seeing a counsellor if you are experiencing worry or stress, or if you require prenatal care while pregnant. Always be sure there are no exclusions or waiting periods associated with these.

8. Coverage of political unrest and terrorism

Even though Canada is a safe country, it's still a good idea to make sure your policy covers terrorism or civil unrest-related events. This could involve medical care or evacuation in the event of such an emergency.

9. Acceptance at the university and length of coverage

Always be sure the insurance you intend to purchase is accepted at your university. You can be required to buy insurance from a partner provider by some Canadian institutions. Additionally, confirm that your plan includes coverage for any short courses or breaks in between terms. Do not assume that you do not require insurance if your course is only for six months. The dangers are the same for short courses. Purchase insurance that will protect you from the moment you land until you get back.

10. Pre-existing conditions

Don't conceal any chronic illnesses you may have, such as diabetes or asthma. Declare it at the time of policy purchase. Specific coverage for existing illnesses is offered by some insurers but not by others. Your claim may be denied if you have asthma and suffer an attack in Canada without first declaring it. However, the treatment will be covered if you disclose it and your insurer covers it under specific conditions.

Remember to check your visa information before making any plans for your move. Read our Canada Student Visa Comprehensive Guide for step-by-step assistance with the application process to make sure all of your requirements, deadlines, and supporting documentation are in order.

A few student-friendly tips before you fly to Canada

To ensure a seamless and stress-free move, there are a few important things you should take care of before you take that plane to Canada. Consider this your checklist.

1. Organise Your Documents

Verify that your passport will remain valid for the entire course (and ideally for an additional six months beyond that). Keep both digital and hard copies of your fee receipts, admission letter, study permit, and student travel insurance with you.

2. Wear Weather-Related Clothing

Depending on the province, Canada might have harsh winters. Even if you're travelling in the summer, bring a durable jacket, gloves, waterproof shoes, and warm layers. Being ready is the greatest option.

3. Purchase insurance for international travel.

International students cannot get free healthcare in Canada. Therefore, purchasing a reliable international travel insurance policy is essential, not just to fulfil visa requirements, but also to safeguard against exorbitant medical expenses.

4. Get the essential apps beforehand.

Install Google Maps, the ArriveCAN app, and the official app for your university. Additionally, research local weather and transit apps for your new city.

5. Keep in Touch

As soon as you land, purchase a Canadian SIM card or get an international roaming package. It's critical to maintain communication with family.

6. Arrange Your Accommodation

Make sure you have a place to stay before you leave, whether it's an apartment, hostel, or dorm. It's very reassuring to know where you'll be living.

Conclusion

Studying in Canada is a significant decision, and having the correct support system in place can make all the difference. Getting student travel insurance is something you should never ignore. It serves as your safety net in case things don't work out as planned, so it's more than just a necessity. The correct foreign travel insurance can keep you safe from medical crises and flight delays, protecting you both monetarily and emotionally. Therefore, before you depart, make sure that your insurance is arranged, your bags are packed carefully, and all of your documentation is in order. Getting ready now will make your international experience safer and more seamless.

Disclaimer: The above information is for illustrative purposes only. For more details, please refer to the policy wordings and prospectus before concluding the sales.

Here’s Everything a College Student Should Know About Travelling

Student Travel Insurance: How to Buy the Best One

Get Started with Your Education in the US by Applying for a Student Visa

Some Important Tips for Students Thinking of Travelling

10 Things Students Must Pack While Going To Study Abroad